Products
Atovaquone is commercially available in suspension and film-coated tablet form (Wellvone, Malarone + Proguanil, generics). It has been approved in many countries since 1996.
Structure and properties
Atovaquone (C22H19ClO3, Mr = 366.8 g/mol) is a hydroxynaphtoquinone derivative and has structural similarities to ubiquinone. It is lipophilic and exists as a yellow crystalline powder that is practically insoluble in water.
Effects
Atovaquone (ATC P01AX06) has antiparasitic properties. Its effects are based on inhibition of mitochondrial electron transport, resulting in blockage of nucleic acid and ATP synthesis. Atovaquone has a long half-life of two to three days.
Indications
For the prevention and treatment of –pneumonia. In combination with proguanil for the prevention and treatment of malaria. Atovaquone is also effective against other protozoa, such as babesia, but is not approved for these indications.
Dosage
According to the SmPC. The drugs are administered once daily and should always be taken with food because this increases bioavailability.
Contraindications
- Hypersensitivity
Full details of precautions and interactions can be found in the drug label.
Adverse effects
The most common possible adverse effects include nausea, diarrhea, vomiting, rash, anemia, neutropenia, fever, hyponatremia, headache, insomnia, elevated liver enzyme levels, and hypersensitivity reactions.
